CMS Community Shares Mixed Views on AI in Education
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) recently gathered input from over 10,000 students, families, and staff about the use of artificial intelligence in education. This community feedback is guiding the district’s approach as AI tools become more common in classrooms.
High Interest with Varied Opinions
The survey showed that 79% of respondents use AI at home, and 49% use it at work. Despite growing familiarity, opinions differ across CMS: school-level staff tend to be more cautious, while district leaders see greater potential for AI to support learning.
Key Concerns from the Community
- Academic integrity: Worries about AI enabling cheating.
- Data privacy: How student data is collected and utilized.
- Interpersonal skills: Concern that overreliance on AI might weaken social and communication abilities.
What the Community Wants
Feedback emphasizes that AI should support, not replace, teaching. There is strong interest in educating students about how AI works, when to trust it, and its ethical and career implications. Many also called for clear policies and increased teacher involvement before adopting new AI tools.
Support for Practical AI Uses
Across all groups, there was broad approval for applying AI in ways that improve operations and student support, including:
- Automating administrative tasks
- Enhancing communication with families
- Personalizing support for students
- Helping with homework and scheduling
Training is Essential
A majority of staff (66%) expressed a strong desire for AI-related training. Many prefer hands-on workshops and virtual sessions to build their skills and confidence in using AI effectively.
Next Steps for CMS
- June 2025: A draft AI vision will be presented to district leaders.
- July 2025: The final AI Vision and Guiding Principles will be made public.
CMS is committed to integrating AI thoughtfully and transparently, prioritizing the needs of students and educators.
For educators looking to strengthen their AI skills, Complete AI Training offers a range of courses tailored to practical applications in education and beyond.